Kona development plan addresses water conservation and treatment upgrades

The April 1, 2025, Monthly Water Commission Meeting in Hawaii focused on critical water management issues, particularly concerning the Kona development plan. During the meeting, a representative from the county highlighted ongoing collaboration with local authorities to address water sustainability concerns.

A significant point raised was the community's anxiety over the potential impact of increased water extraction on sustainable yield. Residents expressed worries that the current practices of water conservation and remediation are inadequate. The representative emphasized the need for improved wastewater treatment, suggesting that the county upgrade its wastewater treatment standards from RS 2 to RS 1. This upgrade is crucial as untreated water has been detected in nearshore areas, raising environmental concerns.

The representative urged that any future permits for water drilling and consumption should be accompanied by effective conservation measures and enhanced wastewater management to mitigate the risks of further water drawdown. Additionally, they recommended that the county commit to Kapa'akai analysis in its decision-making processes to ensure sustainable water use.

The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the community's concerns and a commitment to revisit these discussions in future sessions, allowing for further public input on the matter.